• Vintage Kaleidoscope, "MOMA grey" by Artist Judith Karelitz. main image
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Vintage Kaleidoscope, "MOMA grey" by Artist Judith Karelitz.

Vintage Kaleidoscope, "MOMA grey" by Artist Judith Karelitz.

$65.00
$65.00
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✨ Optical Magic from the Museum of Modern Art – A Vintage Karascope Treasure

The Karascope™ by Judith Karelitz (1978) is a rare and fascinating kaleidoscope that stands out from traditional designs. Created using a patented optical system, this collectible piece transforms ordinary white light into vibrant, swirling displays—without using any colored glass. Originally copyrighted in 1978 and connected to the Museum of Modern Art in New York, it’s a true piece of optical and artistic history.

What makes this kaleidoscope so unique? The Karascope uses polarized light and clear birefringent materials to produce color through physics rather than pigments. As you rotate the base and adjust the eyepiece, the asymmetrical patterns shift and swirl in a mesmerizing dance of color. No two images are the same.

This particular Karascope is in excellent condition, especially considering it has been loved for over 30 years. The red cardboard exterior sleeve shows fading and wear, but the kaleidoscope itself remains beautifully preserved and fully functional.

Key Features:

  • Original 1978 Karascope™ by Judith Karelitz

  • Featured by the Museum of Modern Art, New York

  • No colored glass – relies on the spectral colors of light

  • Patented optical process using polarized and refracted light

  • Creates asymmetrical, swirling color patterns

  • Base and eyepiece rotate to alter patterns and colors

  • Made in the U.S.A.

  • Constructed with cardboard and clear optical materials

Dimensions:

  • Kaleidoscope length: approximately 11 1/4 inches

  • Kaleidoscope diameter: approximately 2 1/16 inches

  • Protective red sleeve: approximately 11 3/4 inches long by 2 1/4 inches in diameter

Why You Will Love It:

  • A fascinating display of science and art combined

  • Rare 1970s kaleidoscope with strong collector value

  • Eye-catching asymmetrical designs unlike standard kaleidoscopes- Swirl Interior Image

  • A fantastic gift for science lovers, artists, or kaleidoscope collectors

  • Unique display piece from a well-known artist with MoMA ties

Care Instructions:

  • Store in the original protective sleeve when not in use

  • Keep out of direct sunlight to avoid additional fading

  • Avoid contact with water or cleaning solvents

  • Do not attempt to disassemble the unit

Treat yourself—or surprise someone special—with a kaleidoscope like no other. This vintage Karascope is a collectible piece of art, science, and nostalgia all in one. Order now and bring home a dazzling bit of optical magic.